ARGENTINA Team Profile: The two time World champions Argentina captured the imagination of fans all over the world with their style and flair during their triumphs in 1978 and 1986, and the likes of Mario Kempes, Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta became heroes to millions following their exploits at the world’s biggest stage. Therefore, Argentina is one of the magical nations of world football who share a special bond with the World Cup. However, Argentina have been facing a lean spell at the World Cup in recent times, having failed to make it past the quarter finals of the competition in 24 years and for a nation with such great pedigree, it is simply not acceptable. With the World Cup now being held in South America and the Argentine side looking stronger than ever, there is a huge sense of optimism among the Albiceleste . Alejandro Sabella will be the man leading the Argentina side to the World Cup and the attacking talent at his disposal is the envy of every manager around the world. The Albiceleste have been placed in a group consisting of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nigeria and Iran, and Sabella will feel that his side should comfortably negate the competition during the group stages. The problem with Argentina in previous World Cups has been that they have been unable to handle the pressure which comes during the latter stages of the tournament and Sabella must look to prepare his side mentally if he is going to meet the expectations of the fans by bringing home the World Cup. Star Man Lionel Messi Age - 26 Club – Barcelona Position - Striker Undoubtedly the best player in the planet at the moment, Lionel Messi is the face of world football. The diminutive genius has been simply sensational for Barcelona over the last couple of years and his goalscoring records are ridiculously impressive. At 26, Messi has won everything there is to win at club level and it is just frightening to think what the Argentine superstar can go on to achieve in his career. However, one criticism labeled at Messi’s direction is the fact that he has not been able to replicate his brilliant form at club level for his national team, with his record with Argentina at major tournaments very disappointing. Since being appointed captain though, Messi seems to have shouldered the responsibility of his side and has been producing a couple of wonderful performances. The Barcelona star is currently at the peak of his powers and there will be no excuses if he were to fail at the World Cup this time around. Messi has inevitably been compared to Argentina hero Diego Maradona and if he is able to guide the Albiceleste to success in Brazil, the 26-year old will cement a hero status comparable to his childhood idol.
Posted on: Sat, 14 Jun 2014 14:05:57 +0000
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